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The Alice in Wonderland design was chosen to celebrate Lewis Carroll’s connection with Rugby.

The author, whose real name Charles Lutwidge Dodgson, studied at Rugby School for three years from 1846.

A recent inspection of the sculpture showed that there were large cracks at the base of the trunk and a subsequent resistograph test confirmed significant decay extended into its core.

The Alice in Wonderland tree after it was first carved in 2007 (left) and now

However the council have said that they want to preserve the carvings, which have been adored by fairytale lovers from across the world who share photos of the sculpture on Pinterest.

The council has started work on a project with Rugby Art Gallery and Museum with a view to presenting the sculpture in a new format at another location in the town.

Coun Lisa Parker, Rugby Borough Council portfolio holder for the environment and public realm, said: “The Alice in Wonderland tree sculpture was an innovative way of extending the life of a dead tree, but it’s life was always going to be limited.

“Nevertheless, it’s with a heavy heart we have had to condemn the tree and arrange for it to be removed as we know it has become a much-loved attraction at Whinfield Recreation Ground.

“However, we have already started work with our team at Rugby Art Gallery and Museum to protect the carvings and hope to unveil the results of our preservation project in the near future.”